Focusing on the results of a consultation, which received 368 responses, Hart said opinions were divided on the proposals, with 44% against, 41% in favour, and 15% undecided.

Those against included health organisations and local authorities, which faced being stripped of their commissioning responsibilities. Service user groups and some charities had expressed enthusiasm, however.

In future, mental health services will be controlled by seven new integrated NHS bodies, replacing local health boards and NHS trusts. Responsibilities for delivering services will continue to be shared with local authorities.

The minister accepted arguments made by groups such as the Association for Real Change that including learning disability services within this body would introduce a “medical model” that could marginalise people who did not have mental health problems.